Help end dependence on fossil fuels
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Support Northeast Biodiesel a Worker-Owned Biodiesel Plant in Greenfield, Massachusetts!
Calling all eco-conscious advocates and community supporters! We are thrilled to launch a crowdfunding campaign to raise $50,000 in working capital for our worker-owned biodiesel plant in Greenfield, Massachusetts.
Northeast Biodiesel is a biofuel manufacturing plant in Greenfield, MA, committed to producing high-quality, renewable fuel, sustainably, using recycled cooking oil. Northeast Biodiesel is a truly grassroots project. From its inception, Northeast Biodiesel has relied on community investment. Using these community-generated funds, Northeast Biodiesel built a 4200 sqft facility on a 25-acre plot in the industrial park in Greenfield, MA. Northeast Biodiesel's majority investor, Co-op Power, is a renewable energy cooperative owned by consumers from around New England and New York.
In 2016 after only a few years of operation, the price of fossil diesel plummeted forcing the plant to cease production. With the help of some innovative financial restructuring, we were able to breathe new life into the project in the spring of 2022.
With new capital in hand, we set out to restart the project as a worker-owned cooperative. after months of writing bylaws and organizing the structure, we began training on safety and the mechanics of running a biodiesel plant.
As it turns out, after years of being an inactive processing plant, there were many unforeseen issues with the plant. Mice had eaten wiring and some of the pumps had seized, software was out of date and countless other mechanical challenges. it seemed every challenge we overcame we were met by a new roadblock. so now a year later we have worked out the kinks and are ready to go into full production. unfortunately, we have used our restart capital. Which is where you come in.
How will we use this money? We need this money to buy the vegetable oil to jumpstart the project again. With a couple of tankers of used cooking oil, we will be able to make and sell enough biodiesel to pay ourselves, cover our overhead, and buy more oil, thus moving us into full production.
By contributing to our project, you'll be helping us recreate local job opportunities, promote environmental sustainability, and foster community engagement. Helping us heat homes and schools, run farm tractors and off-road equipment as well as on-road transportation.
Our premium biodiesel can be used in any oil heat system or diesel engine reducing carbon emissions, improving engine performance, and improving air quality.
Why is our worker-owned biodiesel plant important?
Creating Local Jobs: As a worker-owned cooperative, our primary focus is on empowering our community and creating meaningful employment opportunities. By supporting our project, you're not just supporting a biodiesel plant; you're investing in the well-being and livelihoods of local workers. Your contribution will enable us to continue to hire skilled professionals, provide fair wages, and foster a sense of ownership and pride among our dedicated team.
Environmental Sustainability: Our worker-owned biodiesel plant is at the forefront of promoting a sustainable future. Our biodiesel, a renewable energy source, manufactured from waste-stream cooking oil significantly reduces landfill, and carbon emissions and lessens our dependence on fossil fuels. By supporting our project, you are actively participating in the fight against climate change and supporting cleaner, greener energy alternatives.
Community Engagement: We firmly believe that community involvement is crucial for sustainable growth. Our worker-owned biodiesel plant is committed to engaging with local organizations, schools, and community groups. We aim to provide educational programs, workshops, internships and partnerships to promote environmental awareness and empower individuals to make eco-friendly choices. By supporting our campaign, you are investing in community-driven initiatives that foster a sense of shared responsibility for our planet.
How can you make a difference?
Your support is integral to the success of our worker-owned biodiesel plant.
Here's how you can contribute:
Make a Financial Contribution: Every dollar counts! By making a generous donation to our crowdfunding campaign, you directly support our worker-owned cooperative and its mission. Together, we can reach our $50,000 goal and build a more sustainable and equitable future for Greenfield.
Spread the Word: Help us expand our reach by sharing our campaign through social media, email, or word of mouth. Let your network know about our worker-owned initiative and encourage them to join the movement for environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
Volunteer: If you have skills, expertise, or resources that can benefit our worker-owned biodiesel plant, we welcome your involvement. Whether it's technical knowledge, marketing support, or community outreach, your contributions can make a tangible impact on our success. Reach out to us to discuss how you can get involved and become an active part of our cooperative.
Proud members of The Wellspring Cooperative and
COWOP The Coalition for Worker Ownership and Power
Organizer
Northeast Biodiesel
Organizer
Greenfield, MA